Camera Gear Review News

Just posted: Pelican 1615 Air Wheeled Hard Case Review.

This case is nearly the same as the Pelican 1637 Air Wheeled Hard Case, with one significant exception — the dimensions.

Order the Pelican 1615 Air Wheeled Hard Case from B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX

Please share!

Time to start planning: a total supermoon lunar eclipse is coming on May 15-16, 2022 and, barring clouds, will be visible to a significant population, including most of the USA.

From EarthSky.org:

People in the Americas, Europe and Africa will see the total lunar eclipse during the night of May 15-16, 2022. Plus, on this night, the moon is close: a supermoon.

Penumbral eclipse begins at 1:32 UTC on May 16 (9:32 p.m. EDT on May 15).

Partial eclipse begins at 2:27 UTC on May 16 (10:27 p.m. EDT on May 15).

Totality begins (moon engulfed in Earth’s shadow) begins at 3:29 UTC on May 16 (11:29 p.m. EDT on May 15).

Totality ends at 4:53 UTC on May 16 (12:53 a.m. EDT).

Partial eclipse ends at 5:55 UTC on May 16 (1:55 a.m. EDT).

Penumbral eclipse ends at 6:50 UTC on May 16 (2:50 a.m. EDT).

Maximum eclipse is at 4:12 UTC on May 16 (12:12 a.m. EDT).

Duration of totality: About 85 minutes.

Note: This total eclipse is central. That means the moon passes centrally through the axis of Earth’s dark (umbral) shadow. The moon is in a near part of its orbit – close to Earth – during the eclipse. It’s a supermoon.

Because they are so deep, such eclipses typically have the longest total phases. In this case, the duration of totality lasts almost an hour and a half: 84.9 minutes!

Get the complete lunar eclipse details at EarthSky.org

Plan to participate in this event. Order your long telephoto lens now from B&H to ensure the ability to capture the lunar details in high resolution. You might want to also pick up a tracking mount.

Here is the story behind the Super Wolf Blood Moon Lunar Eclipse 2019 Progression Composite Image.

Use your favorite night sky app (such as Photo Ephemeris) to determine moon's elevation. You need to ensure that the shooting location does not have obstructions that will not block the view during the shooting period.

Many of us will find the moon high in the sky when the eclipse begins and will be shooting nearly straight up during totality. The How to Shoot Upward with a Large Lens While Using a Gimbal Tripod Head article may be helpful.

Just posted: Cartoni Focus 8 Fluid Video Head Review.

The Focus 8 is entry level into the high-performing Cartoni Focus series.

Order the Cartoni Focus 8 Fluid Video Head from B&H or Adorama.

Please share!

Image quality, vignetting, flare, and distortion test results along with specs, measurements, and standard product images are now available on the Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens page.

This lens is available in Sony E and Leica L mounts. Order the Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens from B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX

Rent the Sigma 18-50mm F2.8 DC DN Contemporary Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Image quality, vignetting, flare, and distortion test results along with specs, measurements, and standard product images are now available on the Sigma 16mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens page.

This lens is available in Canon EF-M, Sony E, Leica L, Fujifilm X, and Micro Four Thirds mounts.

Save $75.00 instantly via the current Sigma promotion. Order the Sigma 16mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens from B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX

Rent the Sigma 16mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Image quality, vignetting, flare, and distortion test results along with specs and measurements are now available on the Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens page.

This lens is available in Canon EF-M, Sony E, Leica L, Fujifilm X, and Micro Four Thirds mounts.

Save $75.00 instantly via the current Sigma promotion. Order the Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens from B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX

Rent the Sigma 30mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Image quality test results are available on the Sigma 56mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens page.

This is a sharp lens that is available in Canon EF-M, Sony E, Leica L, Fujifilm X, and Micro Four Thirds mounts.

Save $75.00 instantly via the current Sigma promotion. Order the Sigma 56mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens from B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX

Rent the Sigma 56mm F1.4 DC DN Contemporary Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Expectations and additional information are now available on the Sony FE PZ 16-35mm F4 G Lens page.

B&H is indicating that June 24th is the estimated ship date.

Order the Sony FE PZ 16-35mm F4 G Lens from B&H | Adorama | Amazon | WEX

A considerable amount of information is now available on the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II Lens page.

The version I and version II lens MTF comparison is especially interesting.

From a specifications perspective, here is the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II Lens compared to the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM Lens.

Preorders begin at 10:00 AM ET on Thu, Apr 28th. I expect this lens to be hard to get for a long time and recommend preordering immediately at that time.

Support this site by ordering the Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II Lens from B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX

Please share!

I spent part of last week cleaning up the currently available vs. out of stock and discontinued status of the lenses on the site, saying farewell to an especially large number of Canon EF lenses. While some of those lenses should have been discontinued a long time ago, it was sad and nostalgic to let others go.

The bottom line is that, as I said recently, it is time to make the move to mirrorless.

With the EF lineup significantly impacted, I thought it would be interesting to again sort out Canon's 10 oldest lenses. What has changed since the over-4-year-old and over-6-year-old lists?

Here is the bottom 10 list in oldest to youngest sequence.

Model	Year Introduced
Canon TS-E 90mm f/2.8 Tilt-Shift Lens	1991	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Lens	1992	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Lens	1993	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens	1996	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon MP-E 65mm Macro Lens	1999	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III USM Lens	1999	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF 17-40mm f/4L USM Lens	2003	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens	2004	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM Lens	2004	B&H | Adorama | Amazon
Canon EF 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6L IS USM Lens	2004	B&H | Adorama | Amazon

Perhaps my biggest surprise in the above list is that the Canon TS-E 90mm f/2.8 Tilt-Shift Lens is still on the shelf. The Canon TS-E 90mm f/2.8L Tilt-Shift Macro Lens has a feature superset and optical performance far surpassing the old lens. While the L lens's price also far surpasses the old TS-E 90, the 30-year-old lens that won't go away is still rather expensive.

The Canon EF 85mm f/1.8 USM Lens has long been a great value portrait lens, offering good build and image quality and quick USM AF for a low price. 85mm image quality has come a long way since this lens's inception.

While the Canon EF 50mm f/1.4 USM Lens produces soft image quality at wide apertures, it is a small and affordable lens. For years, this was the best Canon lens available in this favorite focal length.

The Canon EF 135mm f/2L USM Lens's ultra-wide aperture and fast AF made it a first choice for its low light and background blur performance. L-grade build quality combined with a relatively low price added to this lens's appeal. This lens's image quality was greatly loved but now surpassed.

The Canon MP-E 65mm Macro Lens is a unique, fun lens that has relatively low popularity.

The Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III USM Lens is a great (cheap) option for the manufacturer to add to a camera kit to make the buyer thinks they are getting a better deal.

We loved the Canon EF 17-40mm f/4L USM Lens when it arrived. Eventually, the Canon EF 16-35mm f/4L IS USM Lens arrived with dramatically better image quality. The 17-40 should have been retired many years ago from an image quality perspective. However, it offers an ultra-wide-angle L-zoom lens option to the budget-constrained photographer.

Since its inception, the Canon EF-S 17-85mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens has been a good general-purpose lens option for the APS-C kit. This lens features good image quality, a great range of focal lengths, decent build quality, image stabilization, and USM AF.

The Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM Lens was Canon's first APS-C lens to offer ultra-wide angles of view to the APS-C cameras. It remains beside the EF-S 10-18mm IS STM Lens in the EF-S lineup.

There is no Canon equivalent to the EF 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6L IS USM Lens. While this lens has L-series goodness, a size, weight, and image quality penalty is paid for the long focal length range.

That concludes the 2022 roundup of the oldest Canon lenses.

What was the newest Canon lens to be discontinued? That would be the Canon EF 24-105mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM Lens, formerly the optimal budget full-frame DSLR kit lens.

Just posted: Cartoni L507 Carbon Fiber 2-Stage SDS Smart Stop Tripod Review.

This is an impressively rigid tripod.

Order the Cartoni L507 Carbon Fiber 2-Stage SDS Smart Stop Tripod from B&H.

Please share!

Just posted: Cartoni Focus 10 Fluid Video Head Review.

This head costs substantially more than the recently reviewed Manfrotto 608 Nitrotech Fluid Video Head, but the Cartoni's fluid motion is better.

This head in the with-tripod kits is on sale at B&H – save $308.00 - $500.00.

Order the Cartoni Focus 10 Fluid Video Head from B&H | Adorama

Please share!

Overall, Canon and Sony offer outstanding camera and lens line-ups. It is hard to go wrong with either choice, and with no unanimous winner declared, neither Canon nor Sony will be referencing this article. However, making Canon or Sony happy is not my job — advising you is — and advantages exist between the brands.

While my kit is primarily based on Canon gear, I maintain a full complement of Sony cameras and lenses to use during evaluations. Having a solid basis from both brands permits a best-of-breed approach.

Aside from a Canon EOS 1Ds Mark III utilized to capture the site's standard lens product images in the studio, the kit is all mirrorless (I know, I should sell that last camera and process R5 images to the 1Ds III pixel dimensions). Most of the best cameras and lenses are mirrorless models; those starting out should opt for a mirrorless kit, and those interested in bettering their kits should begin the migration to mirrorless.

The Canon side of the kit foundation is built on a pair of EOS R5 bodies. The R5 is an outstanding performer, featuring general-purpose utility, outstanding AF performance, and excellent image quality, including high resolution.

A Sony Alpha 1 and a Sony Alpha 7R IV represent sony in the kit. The a1 is Sony's flagship model, featuring up to 30 fps continuous shooting with no viewfinder blackout, 50 MP resolution, and best-available specs and features throughout. The a7R IV's only advantage over the a1 is higher resolution. It would only take a moment of weakness to upgrade the a7R IV to a second a1.

Listing the cameras was easy, and most often, the which camera decision is answered by the lens needed.

Let's look at the lenses, starting with the zoom lenses and following with the prime lens options. The sort within those two categories will be the widest focal length and then the widest aperture.

Sony FE 12-24mm F2.8 GM Lens

Although it does not go to 11mm, this phenomenal zoom lens is smaller and lighter, has a 2x wider aperture, is at least as sharp wide-open as the Canon EF 11-24mm f/4L USM Lens, and has the same price. That Canon lens is another great option.

I primarily use this lens for landscapes, nightscapes, and interior architecture. Note that the Sony cannot utilize front filters, a detraction for certain needs, primarily those requiring a circular polarizer filter. The Canon lens has the same problem; however, the Drop-In Canon Mount Adapter adds full filter capabilities to this lens.

Canon RF 15-35mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens
Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM Lens

The RF 15-35 is my go-to landscape lens, and it works well for other needs, including capturing the big view at events, etc. Because this focal length range is so important to me, I also have the most equivalent lens on the Sony side, the Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM Lens. If a Sony camera is under evaluation, I'll take the Sony option without hesitation.

Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens
Canon RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM Lens
Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM Lens

The general-purpose focal length range tends to get a lot of use, and there are currently three superb-performing options in the kit. Initially, only the RF 24-70mm F2.8 had membership, and the results from this lens never disappoint. However, a wider aperture or lighter, more compact option was often needed.

The RF 28-70 F2 had been on the want list since it first arrived, but I waited long enough to ensure the high cost was justified. As it turns out, I waited too long, and this lens was still back ordered when a large indoor music festival assignment hit the calendar, providing the incentive to order. Unfortunately, the lens arrived about a month after the concert. Still, other needs for the f/2 lens are steadily arriving, especially the event coverage it is perfectly suited for.

While the RF 24-70 F2.8 is not a large or heavy lens, a modestly lighter option can make a big difference when hiking long distances, and the RF 24-105mm F4 recently joined the kit to facilitate some hiking needs later this year.

A phenomenal general-purpose zoom lens is arguably Sony's biggest opportunity.

Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens
Canon RF 70-200mm F4 L IS USM Lens

My uses for the 70-200mm focal length range include portraits, events, landscapes, and product images. Until recently, the relatively compact and lightweight F2.8 lens was the kit's solo 70-200mm option, but some distance hiking needs justified the F4 variant's entry into the kit.

The Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens is an outstanding option for those with a sony kit, and this lens addition would help round out the Sony kit shared here.

Canon RF 100-500mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM Lens
Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 GM OSS Lens

The RF 100-500 goes almost everywhere with me. This lens is an outstanding choice for landscapes, wildlife, portraits, daytime field sports, and more.

The FE lens fills this important role when working with a Sony camera.

Those with Sony-based kits should also consider the Sony FE 200-600mm F5.6-6.3 G OSS Lens. This lens shifts the focal length range to the long direction, which noticeably increases the size and weight of the lens. Because I most often have a 600mm f/4 lens complementing the long telephoto zoom, I opted for the more compact and wider-angle lens option.

Now we look at the primes, starting with a combined discussion of the widest three lenses.

Sony FE 14mm F1.8 GM Lens
Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G Lens
Sony FE 24mm F1.4 GM Lens

These three lenses will outperform all others matching their focal length, and the ultra-wide apertures make them the ultimate astrophotography lenses. These three lenses are in the pack if I'm photographing the night sky.

Sony FE 35mm F1.4 GM Lens

A 35mm prime lens most often joins the pack when portraits are scheduled. The strong background blur and low-light capabilities of the f/1.4 aperture are extremely attractive features, with the 35mm angle of view facilitating a great perspective for full-body portraits.

Canon's EF 35mm f/1.4L II USM is an outstanding lens, both optically and physically. However, the Sony lens is smaller, lighter, and less expensive. I purchased the Sony lens to review and kept it.

Canon RF 50mm F1.2 L USM Lens

When this lens arrived in the Canon USA refurbished inventory, I couldn't resist adding it to the kit. Reviewing the RF 50mm F1.2 revealed it the incredible-performing 50mm lens we had long waited for.

The focal length and aperture make the RF 50mm F1.2 an ideal portraiture and event lens.

Later, Sony introduced the FE 50mm F1.2 GM Lens. It is also an outstanding choice, slightly smaller and less expensive. In this decision, select the lens that matches your camera.

Especially with the RF 85mm F1.2 and RF 28-70 later joining the kit, my 50mm prime lenses do not see much use. Thus, I don't own models from both brands, and the RF 50mm lens is at the top of the consideration to sell list.

Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM Lens

This lens joined the most wanted list immediately upon providing the image quality test results, where it showed a stunning improvement over its EF predecessor. This lens is so optically high-performing that it is currently used for image quality testing of Canon EOS R-series cameras.

If portrait photography is on your list, the RF 85mm F1.2 lens is an outstanding choice, one that makes low light a non-issue.

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro Lens

The only non-mirrorless lens in this list, the adapted EF 100mm L macro is an outstanding performer. I may upgrade to the Canon RF 100mm F2.8 L Macro IS USM Lens someday, but I'm not yet over the RF lens's focus shift issue.

Sony FE 135mm F1.8 GM Lens

Similar to the RF 85 F1.2 to the Canon system is the FE 135mm F1.8 to the Sony system. The 135mm focal length is superb for portraits (and products), and the extremely high optical quality is the reason this lens is used for Sony Alpha camera image quality testing.

Canon RF 400mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens

Periodically, I decide that I could get along without a 400mm f/2.8 lens in the kit. Then life happens, and I realize how important this lens is to the needs coming in. A 400mm f/2.8 lens is used primarily for sports and wildlife photography, but it gets called upon for portraits since it is already in the kit. This lens delivers differentiating results in all its uses, with the background blur strength surpassing nearly all other options.

Sony-based kits should opt for the also-superb FE 400mm F2.8 GM OSS Lens. I like the Canon option very slightly better, with better image stabilization performance being the biggest differentiator.

Canon RF 600mm F4 L IS USM Lens
Sony FE 600mm F4 GM OSS Lens

Wildlife and sports are among my primary photographic pursuits, the 600mm f/4 is the best option for those needs, and this option for both brands is covered in the kit.

The Canon lens's image stabilization system is better, but I'll pick the Sony option for a sharpness advantage if extenders/teleconverters are needed.

Canon RF 1.4x Extender
Canon RF 2x Extender
Sony FE 1.4x Teleconverter
Sony FE 2x Teleconverter

I like carrying and using the RF 1.4 with the RF 400 F2.8, and I like using the FE 2x with the FE 600 F4 when photographing the sun and moon. Otherwise, getting closer is usually better than using extenders, and in this kit, extenders and teleconverters are most frequently used for lens image quality testing.

Which lens will be added to the kit next? It probably has not been announced yet.

Sony astrophotography lens recommendations are now available on the Sony Lens Recommendations page.

While creating the Sony list was easy, the Canon line-up has more room for improvement. New to the Best Canon Lenses page:

Best Canon Astrophotography Lens (Mirrorless)
Best Canon Astrophotography Lens (DSLR)

Just posted: Sony a9 II Review page.

Order the Sony a9 II from B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX

Rent the Sony a9 II from Lensrentals.

Please share!

There is a Sony Alpha 9 II in my hands, and it is time to set up this camera for use. Following are the 36 steps taken to prepare an out-of-the-box a9 II for use.

1. Charge the battery
2. Record serial number, and add camera to insurance policy
3. If desired, download and install Capture One (for Sony) and/or Sony Imaging Edge (unless your current favorite RAW image processing software supports this camera)
4. Insert charged battery, and power on the camera
5. Set the language, timezone, date, time, timeformat
6. Insert memory card(s)
7. Select M mode 1, press the "MENU" button, and configure the camera as follows:
8. Shooting Menu 1, Tab 1: File Format: RAW, RAW File Type: Lossless Comp (full image quality, reduced file size, ensure your software supports this format)
9. Shooting Menu 1, Tab 1: RAW File Type: Uncompressed (full image quality)
10. Shooting Menu 1, Tab 1: JPG File Type: Extra Fine (though I seldom shoot in JPG format)
11. Shooting Menu 1, Tab 2: Lens Compensation: Shading, Chromatic Aberration, and Distortion Comp: All Off (I use the RAW processing software to enable desired lens compensation, with CA correction frequently selected)
12. Shooting Menu 1, Tab 3: Bracket Settings: Bracket order: ->0>+ (considerably enhances image selection for HDR processing)
13. Shooting Menu 1, Tab 4: Focus Area: Flexible Spot S (this selection frequently changes to match the needs of a shoot)
14. Shooting Menu 1, Tab 5: Priority Set in AF-S: AF
15. Shooting Menu 1, Tab 5: Priority Set in AF-C: AF
16. Shooting Menu 1, Tab 5: Switch V/H AF Area: AF Point Only
17. Shooting Menu 1, Tab 6: Face/Eye AF: Face/Eye Frame Disp: On
18. Shooting Menu 1, Tab 9: Spot Metering Point: Focus Point Link
19. Shooting Menu 1, Tab 12: Creative Style: NT (Neutral), Sharpness = 1 (the Neutral setting provides a lower contrast histogram. I usually process with the Natural creative style in Capture One)
20. Shooting Menu 1, Tab 13: Peaking Setting: On
21. Shooting Menu 2, Tab 5: Release w/o Lens: Disable
22. Shooting Menu 2, Tab 5: Release w/o Card: Disable (why is this not the default?)
23. Shooting Menu 2, Tab 7: Grid Line: Rule of Thirds (aids in composition)
24. Shooting Menu 2, Tab 7: DISP Button: Monitor: Uncheck For viewfinder, press [enter]
25. Shooting Menu 2, Tab 9: Dial Setup: TV/Av (I adjust the shutter speed more frequently and urgently than the aperture, and the front dial is easier to access quickly)
26. Shooting Menu 2, Tab 11: Audio signals: Off (how to turn off the loud and usually-annoying AF beep sound)
27. Network Menu, Tab 2: Airplane Mode: On
28. Playback Menu, Tab 4: Display Rotation: Off (image fills LCD)
29. Setup Menu, Tab 1: Delete confirm.: "Delete" first
30. Setup Menu, Tab 2: Touch Operations: On
31. Setup Menu, Tab 2: Touch Panel/Pad: Touch Panel+Pad
32. Setup Menu, Tab 2: Touch Pad Settings: Touch Position Mode: Relative Position, Operation Area: Right 1/2 (avoids nose touches)
33. Setup Menu, Tab 5: Copyright Info: Write Copyright Info: On, Set Photographer: [your name], Set Copyright: [as desired], Write Serial Number: On (note: entering this information without a touchscreen may be a painful process)
34. Setup Menu, Tab 5: Format (ensure that there are no important files on the card(s) prior to formating)
35. My Menu: Format Steady Shot Anti-flicker Set. Flash Comp. Face/Eye Subject, Bracket Settings
36. With a lens mounted and a subject in focus, adjust the viewfinder diopter until the scene is sharp

I make additional menu and other setting changes based on current shooting scenarios, but this list covers my initial camera setup process.

To copy this configuration means you intend to shoot as I do - including in RAW-only format. While this setup works great for me, you should adjust the setup to your needs.

If you can't remember your menu setup parameters, keeping an up-to-date list such as this one is a great idea. Anytime the camera is set to the factory state, such as when being serviced or when acquiring an additonal camera, you will be ready to create your setup quickly, while ensuring that an important setting is not omitted. If you purchase another same or similar camera, setup will be fast and identical. Consider saving the camera settings to a card (Setup/Tools menu, tab 7, Save/Load Settings on card) for an easy restore.

More Information

Sony Alpha 9 II

Order the Sony Alpha 9 II at B&H | Adorama | Amazon | WEX.

Rent the Sony Alpha 9 II from Lensrentals.

Just posted: Manfrotto 645 FAST Twin Leg Video Tripod Review.

Another high value product from Manfrotto.

Order the Manfrotto 645 FAST Twin Leg Video Tripod from B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX

Please share!

Just posted: Manfrotto 608 Nitrotech Fluid Video Head Review.

This head has a solid feature set and strong performance for the price.

Order the Manfrotto 608 Nitrotech Fluid Video Head from B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX

Please share!

Image quality test results from the Canon EOS R5 are now available in the Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM Lens Review.

To get your comparisons started:

Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM Lens compared to the RF 24-70mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens

Order the Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon USA | WEX

Rent the Canon RF 28-70mm F2 L USM Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Just posted: Rokinon (Samyang) AF 14mm F2.8 Lens for Canon RF and Sony E Review.

This lens looks nice physically.

Order the Rokinon AF 14mm F2.8 Lens from B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA

Rent the Rokinon AF 14mm F2.8 Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Just posted: Rokinon (Samyang) AF 85mm F1.4 Lens for Canon RF and Sony E Review.

This lens exceeded my expectations.

Order the Rokinon (Samyang) AF 85mm F1.4 Lens from B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA

Rent the Rokinon (Samyang) AF 85mm F1.4 Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Image quality test results from the Canon EOS R5 are now available on the Canon RF 24-105mm F4L IS USM Lens Review.

The tested lens is a Canon USA refurbished model, again showing that these lenses are high-performers (and, as always, it appears as new).

Planning for some long hikes later this year, I purchased this lens to cut some weight in the pack.

Order the Canon RF 24-105mm F4L IS USM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon USA | WEX

Rent the Canon RF 24-105mm F4L IS USM Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Just posted: Jackery Explorer Portable Power Station and SolarSaga Solar Panel Review.

A simple and highly useful set of products.

Order the Jackery Explorer Portable Power Station and SolarSaga Solar Panel from Jackery | B&H | Amazon USA

Please share!

Image quality, vignetting, flare, and distortion test results are now available on the Rokinon (Samyang) AF 14mm F2.8 Lens for Canon RF, Sony FE page.

Many of the uses for a 14mm lens require sharp corner image quality. However, I could see the blurry image periphery this lens delivered even in the viewfinder.

Upon looking at the image quality results from this lens, my first thought was that I just wasted hours testing a severely misaligned lens. Yes, the viewfinder did provide a clue. However, all four corners appeared similar, making me second guess the first thought.

So, I reached out to a friend, Roger Cicala at Lensrentals. "Is the Rokinon AF 14mm f/2.8 RF for Canon RF extremely soft in the periphery at the wider apertures? The one I just received delivers some of the worst corner performance I’ve seen."

Roger's reply:

"Well, I can do a long version, but "yep". Also a lot of field curvature, so you may get some improvement in edge performance by focusing off-axis."

More to come.

The Rokinon (Samyang) AF 14mm F2.8 Lens for Canon RF, Sony FE is available to order from B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA

Rent the Rokinon (Samyang) AF 14mm F2.8 Lens for Canon RF, Sony FE from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Image quality, vignetting, flare, and distortion test results are now available on the Rokinon (Samyang) AF 85mm F1.4 Lens for Canon RF, Sony FE page.

This lens is off to a good start. You will like the weight and love the price.

Here are some comparisons to get you started:

Compared to the Canon RF 85mm F1.2 L USM Lens

Compared to the Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG DN Art Lens

Compared to the Sony FE 85mm F1.4 GM Lens

Order now to take advantage of this deal: "While supplies last", B&H has the Rokinon (Samyang) AF 85mm F1.4 Lens on sale – Save $200.00 on the Sony E mount version and $50.00 on the Canon RF mount version.

Order the Rokinon (Samyang) AF 85mm F1.4 Lens for Canon RF, Sony E from B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA

Rent the Rokinon (Samyang) AF 85mm F1.4 Lens for Canon RF, Sony E from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Just posted: K&F Concept EP324C Multifunction Carbon Fiber Tripod Review.

This tripod, especially with the high-quality ball head included, is an excellent value.

Order the K&F Concept EP324C Multifunction Carbon Fiber Tripod from Amazon USA | B&H | Adorama

Please share!

The Canon RF 800mm F5.6 L IS USM Lens page is now filled with information about and expectations for this lens.

This page is nearly the same as the Canon RF 1200mm F8 L IS USM Lens page, with alternatives adjusted for the focal length.

Cutting to the chase: the opening section should tell you most of what you need to know.

Canon USA expects this lens to start shipping on May 19th, 2022.

Order the Canon RF 800mm F5.6 L IS USM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX

Rent the Canon RF 800mm F5.6 L IS USM Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

The Canon RF 1200mm F8 L IS USM Lens page is now filled with information about and expectations for this lens.

Cutting to the chase: the opening section should tell you most of what you need to know.

Canon USA expects this lens to start shipping on May 19th, 2022.

Order the Canon RF 1200mm F8 L IS USM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX

Rent the Canon RF 1200mm F8 L IS USM Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Just posted: Really Right Stuff Ascend-14 Long Travel Carbon Fiber Tripod Review

This tripod (and lots of other gear) and I just returned from 9 days of photographing landscapes in eastern California. Though very expensive, the Ascend-14 is an outstanding performer – despite its small size and light weight.

Just posted: Sigma 20mm F2 DG DN Contemporary Lens Review.

This is another great member of the Sigma I series.

Order the Sigma 20mm F2 DG DN Contemporary Lens from B&H | Adorama | WEX

Please share!

Image quality, vignetting, and distortion test results along with specs, measurements, and standard product images are now available on the Sigma 20mm F2 DG DN Contemporary Lens page.

Here are some comparisons to get you started:

Compared to the Sony FE 20mm F1.8 G Lens

Compared to the Sigma 20mm F2 DG DN Contemporary Lens

Order the Sigma 20mm F2 DG DN Contemporary Lens from B&H | Adorama | WEX

Please share!

Just posted: Impact Folding Wheeled Base Stand Review.

Why did I wait so long? These light stands are sooo much nicer than what I replaced.

Order the Impact Folding Wheeled Base Stand from B&H (on sale — $63.00 instant savings on the 8.5' model, $33.92 on the 11' model) or Amazon USA.

Adorama has a few Impact Folding Wheeled Base Stand (11') in stock.

Please share!

Just posted: Canon RF 400mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens Review.

This lens is very similar to its 600mm counterpart, and much of the 400mm lens review will mirror the RF 600mm lens review.

Order the Canon RF 400mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA (in stock) | Amazon USA | WEX

Rent the Canon RF 400mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Just posted: Canon RF 600mm F4 L IS USM Lens Review.

This review was nearly completed long ago, but the remaining work is now finished. Awesome lens.

If you want this lens, get in line ASAP. I expect it to be hard to get for a long time.

The Canon RF 600mm F4 L IS USM Lens is available for order at B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Amazon USA (in stock)| WEX

Rent the Canon RF 600mm F4 L IS USM Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

The Canon EOS R5 C page is loaded with information about this model.

Order the Canon EOS R5 C Mirrorless Cinema Camera from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX

Image quality test results from the Canon EOS R5 are now available in the Canon RF 24-240mm F4-6.3 IS USM Lens Review.

Those needing, even sometimes, an all-in-one lens should give this value-priced lens consideration. Expect to need lateral CA correction at the focal length extents.

Order the Canon RF 24-240mm F4-6.3 IS USM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Canon USA refurbished | Amazon USA | WEX

Rent the Canon RF 24-240mm F4-6.3 IS USM Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Image quality test results from the Canon EOS R5 are now available in the Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM Lens Review.

Those needing, even sometimes, an ultra-light general-purpose lens with a long focal length range should give this value-priced lens consideration.

Order the Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Canon USA (refurbished) | Amazon USA | WEX

Rent the Canon RF 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Image quality test results from the Canon EOS R5 are now available in the Canon RF 35mm F1.8 IS STM Macro Lens Review.

Create some image quality comparisons. That link should get you started.

Order the Canon RF 35mm F1.8 IS STM Macro Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | Canon USA Refurbished | Amazon USA | WEX

Rent the Canon RF 35mm F1.8 IS STM Macro Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Just posted: Sony Alpha 7 IV.

The a7 IV is a solid upgrade to its predecessor, the a7 III. While considered a basic model, the a7 IV has an excellent feature set, including an excellent AF system and considerably improved resolution. This camera is a good value.

Order the Sony Alpha 7 IV at B&H | Adorama | Amazon | WEX.

Rent the Sony Alpha 7 IV from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Noise test results are now available on the Sony Alpha 7 IV page.

Create some comparisons. I'll get you started:

Sony Alpha 7 IV vs. Sony Alpha 7 III noise comparison.

Already a best seller, the Sony Alpha 7 IV is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Amazon | WEX.

Rent the Sony Alpha 7 IV from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Just posted: Canon RF 5.2mm F2.8 L Dual Fisheye Lens Review.

Ready for a new creative outlet?

Order the Canon RF 5.2mm F2.8 L Dual Fisheye Lens from B&H or Adorama | Canon USA (in stock) | WEX

Rent the Canon RF 5.2mm F2.8 L Dual Fisheye Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Image quality test results from the Sony FE 135mm F1.8 GM Lens are available on the Sony Alpha 7 IV page.

FE 135mm test results from the Sony Alpha 1, Sony Alpha a7R IV, and Sony Alpha a7R III are available for direct comparison. Additionally, many cameras have been tested with the Canon EF 200mm f/2L IS USM Lens, making the Sony Alpha 7 IV vs. Sony Alpha 7 III comparison available. That comparison shows the IV's significant resolution increase.

Order the Sony Alpha 7 IV at B&H | Adorama | Amazon | WEX.

Rent the Sony Alpha 7 IV from Lensrentals.

Please share!

The Sony a7 IV is here, and it is time to set up this camera for use. Following are the 34 steps I took to make an out-of-the-box a7 IV ready for use.

1. Charge battery
2. Record serial number and add camera to insurance policy
3. Download and install Capture One (for Sony) and/or Sony Imaging Edge (unless your current favorite RAW image processing software supports this camera)
4. Insert charged battery, and power on the camera
5. Set the timezone, date, time, timeformat
6. insert memory card(s)
7. Select M mode, press "Menu", and configure the camera as follows:
8. Shooting Menu, 1 Image Quality: Image Quality Settings: File Format: RAW, RAW File Type: Lossless Comp (full image quality, reduced file size)
9. Shooting Menu, 1 Image Quality: Long Exposure NR: Off (I'll enable this option for very long exposures)
10. Shooting Menu, 1 Image Quality: Lens Compensation: Shading, Chromatic Aberration, and Distortion Comp: All Off (I use the RAW processing software to enable any lens compensation, with CA correction frequently selected)
11. Shooting Menu, 2 Media: Format (ensure there are no important files on the card(s) prior to formating)
12. Shooting Menu, 3 File: Copyright Info: Write Copyright Info: On, Set Photographer: [your name], Set Copyright: [as desired], Write Serial Number: On (note: entering this information on the touchscreen may be a painful process)
13. Shooting Menu, 6 Drive Mode: Bracket Settings: Bracket order: ->0>+ (considerably enhances image selection for HDR processing)
14. Shooting Menu, 7 Shutter/Silent: Release w/o Lens: Disable
15. Shooting Menu, 7 Shutter/Silent: Release w/o Card: Disable (why is this not the default?)
16. Shooting Menu, 10 Shooting Display: Grid Line Display: On (Rule of Thirds selected)
17. Exposure/Color Menu, 6 Color/Tone: D-Range Optimizer: Off
18. Exposure/Color Menu, 6 Color/Tone: Creative Look: NT (Neutral), Sharpness = 1 (this setting provides a lower contrast histogram. I usually process with the Natural creative style in Capture One)
19. Focus Menu, 1 AF/MF: Priority Set in AF-S: AF
20. Focus Menu, 1 AF/MF: Priority Set in AF-C: AF
21. Focus Menu, 2 Focus Area: Focus Area: Spot: S
22. Focus Menu, 2 Switch V/H AF Area: AF Point Only
23. Focus Menu, 3 Face/Eye AF: Face/Eye Frame Disp: On
24. Focus Menu, 5 Peaking Display: On
25. Playback Menu, 4 Delete: "Delete" first
26. Playback Menu, 7 Playback Option: Display Rotation: Off (image fills LCD)
27. Network Menu: 7 Network Menu: Airplane Mode: On
28. Setup Menu: 3 Operation Customize: DISP (Screen Disp) Set: Monitor: Uncheck For viewfinder, press [enter]
29. Setup Menu: 4 Custom Key/Dial Set.: Front Dial: Av/Tv (Tv in M mode) (I adjust the shutter speed more frequently and urgently than aperture and the front dial is easier to access quickly); Rear Dial: Av/Tv (Av in M mode); Rear Control Wheel: Av/Tv (Av in M mode)
30. Setup Menu: 5 Touch Operations: Touch Panel/Pad: Both Valid
31. Setup Menu: 5 Touch Operations: Touch Pad Settings: Touch Position Mode: Relative Position, Operation Area: Whole Screen
32. Setup Menu: 10 Sound Option: Audio signals: Off (how to turn off the loud and usually-annoying AF beep sound)
33. My Menu: Format; Shutter Type; Steady Shot; Face/Eye Subject; Anti-flicker Set.; Flash Comp.
34. With a lens mounted and a subject in focus, adjust the viewfinder diopter until the scene is sharp

I make additional menu and other setting changes based on current shooting scenarios, but this list covers my initial camera setup process.

To copy this configuration means you intend to shoot as I do - including in RAW-only format. While this setup works great for me, you should adjust your setup as needed.

If you can't remember your menu setup parameters, keeping an up-to-date list such as this one is a great idea. Anytime your camera is reset to factory state for some reason, such as when being serviced or when acquiring an additonal camera, you will be ready to create your setup quickly while ensuring that an important setting is not omitted. If you purchase another same or similar camera, you will be able to set it up quickly. Consider saving the camera settings to a card (Tools menu, tab 2, Save/Load Settings on card) for an easy restore.

More Information

Sony Alpha 7 IV

Order the Sony Alpha 7 IV at B&H | Adorama | Amazon | WEX.

Rent the Sony Alpha 7 IV from Lensrentals.

"Learn how filmmaker Alexander Hankoff uses the Canon RF5.2mm F2.8 L Dual Fisheye Lens to explore new opportunities for storytelling."

Order the Canon RF 5.2mm F2.8 L Dual Fisheye Lens from B&H | Adorama | Canon USA | WEX

Rent the Canon RF 5.2mm F2.8 L Dual Fisheye Lens from Lensrentals.

Just posted: Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens Review

Upgrading to this lens can be fully justified by multiple enhancements, especially including sharper image quality and lighter weight.

Get the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX (in Stock)

Rent the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

As I maintain a mixed kit of Sony and Canon gear, I was anxious to see how the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens compared to the equivalent Canon lens, the RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens.

In the image quality comparison, the two lenses appear near equals. The Canon lens seems slightly sharper in the center of the frame from 70mm through 135mm, but any sharpness difference is not meaningful as a differentiator. At 200mm, the Sony lens has about one stop less peripheral shading to its advantage. The Canon lens has slight pincushion distortion at 70mm vs. a tiny amount of pincushion distortion. Both lenses trend toward pincushion distortion as their focal lengths are increased, with the Canon lens having less distortion than the Sony lens by 100mm and through 200mm. The Sony lens shows more color blur in the mid focal length range and blurs corner stars slightly more. The Canon lens produces slightly better specular highlight bokeh and slightly better points on sunstars.

The Sony lens mounted on an Alpha 1 in either AF-S or AF-C mode does not focus slowly, but the Canon lens with an EOS R5 behind it focuses noticeably faster in side-by-side testing. Neither lens makes much noise when focusing, but the Sony lens is slightly quieter.

The Sony lens is compatible with teleconverters, adding the versatility of up to the 140-400mm range with the 2x mounted. However, the teleconverter magnification is not without impact to the image quality, especially with the 2x in the optical path.

Most will find the smaller retracted size vs. fixed size the biggest differentiator between these lenses.

The Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens vs. Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens comparison shows, as seen in the comparison image above, the Canon lens measuring considerably smaller — when retracted. The compact Canon lens size is easier to stow a camera backpack and similar cases. Zoomed to 200mm, the Canon measures 0.27" (7mm) longer. Lenses maintaining a fixed size favor in-the-hand use, giving the Sony lens a different advantage.

When zoomed, the elements inside the lens move and repositioning elements can change the balance of the lens — regardless of the external size changing. However, the large objective lens elements remaining in position are advantageous in this regard, and the Sony lens maintains slightly better balance throughout the zoom range.

The Canon lens is slightly wider.

The Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens was introduced as the "World's Lightest Large-aperture Telephoto Zoom Lens", qualified to full-frame F2.8 70-200mm telephoto zoom lenses that support autofocus. The Sony lens is indeed lighter than the Canon lens, but the measured in-use (with tripod foot and hood) difference is only 2.9 oz (53.2g). Of that difference, 1.6 oz (13.3g) is in the hood weights. Few will find significance in the weight difference between these lenses.

The Sony lens features a front-positioned focus ring. Positioning the zoom ring toward the back of the lens provides a better balance for handheld zooming. Impacting the Sony lens's advantage is the aperture ring positioned behind the zoom ring. The aperture ring is a Sony lens feature advantage, but only for those intending to use it. Making space for the aperture ring shifts the zoom ring forward modestly, farther forward than the Canon lens's zoom ring.

The front element positioned farther forward of the mount gives the Sony lens a modestly better handheld balance at the wider focal lengths. The balance difference equalizes by the longer focal lengths.

Switches add control, but they also add complication, and the aperture ring adds two switches to the design. The zoom lock switch adds one to the Canon side of the equation, and the Sony DMF switch takes the count back to a two-switch lead. It is easier to tactilely find the Canon lens's switches, and the Canon lens's switches are less recessed and easier to use.

The Sony tripod hood is fully integrated and considerably smoother. However, the Canon lens's entire tripod collar can be removed (erasing the weight difference). The Sony lens collar's 90° marks are easier to align, and its tripod foot is removable (and replaceable with an integrated dovetail mount).

Consuming space utilized by the Sony lens's tripod collar is the Canon lens's control ring. Note that this ring can control the aperture.

The Sony lens has three focus hold buttons, and its hood window is tighter.

The additional fixed lens barrel length provides room for the Sony lens to have a longer focus ring.

At review time, the Sony lens costs $1.00 less than the Canon lens.

The bottom line is that both lenses are outstanding. Photographers deciding their camera brand choice at lens selection time will need to look carefully at the differentiating features between these lenses, along with those of the other lens models destined for their kit. In the end, most photographers with a Sony kit will choose the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens, and most photographers with a Canon kit will purchase the Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens.

Lensrental's list of the Most Popular Photography & Videography Gear of 2021 is up.

Interesting is that Canon took 13 out of the 19 positions, with the Canon EOS R5 in the #1 slot. Sony took all but one of the remaining positions.

Reminder: Purchase a Lensrentals gift card and get a bonus card for 20% of the value! No coupon code required. This offer ends 12/25/2021.

Renting is a great option for trying new gear or for getting otherwise unaffordable gear to use for short periods of time.

Image quality test results are now available on the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens page.

You are going to like what this lightweight lens is delivering, and inventory for the used version I lens is growing rapidly.

Compared to the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS Lens

Compared to the Sony FE 70-200mm F4 G OSS Lens

Compared to the Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Lens

Compared to the Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS USM Lens

Note the relatively small size and weight difference in the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens and Sony FE 70-200mm f/4 G OSS Lens comparison.

Order the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens from B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX (in Stock)

Rent the Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!

Just posted: Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Tough-55 Roller Hard Case Review.

This is a highly-protective case sized ideally for common camera kits.

Note the current $50.00 under regular street price deal at Adorama.

The Manfrotto Pro Light Reloader Tough-55 Roller Hard Case is in stock at B&H | Adorama (on sale for $50.00 off usual street price) | Amazon USA

Just posted: Sigma 90mm F2.8 DG DN Contemporary Lens Review

The 90mm version is similar to the other five Sigma I series compact prime lenses.

The Sigma 90mm F2.8 DG DN Contemporary Lens is in stock at B&H | Adorama | Amazon USA | WEX

Rent the Sigma 90mm F2.8 DG DN Contemporary Lens from Lensrentals.

Please share!